Dispersed camping around Carlisle, Kentucky offers options within the Daniel Boone National Forest approximately 30-45 minutes from town. The terrain features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 600-1,200 feet and limestone creek beds throughout the region. Winter camping sees average lows around 25°F while summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking to natural arches: Red River Gorge [https://thedyrt.com/camping/kentucky/red-river-gorge-geological-area] features numerous geological formations accessible through established trail systems. "Princess Arch offers 105ft of elevation and is a quick 0.6 mi hike from the parking loop. There are bathrooms and trash bins at the parking loop," notes one visitor who recommends getting your parking pass at the Shell station in Stanton for $5.
Water activities: The region's creeks and rivers provide natural swimming holes during warm months. "Camp amongst the tree line and branch out into the cool clear water on a hot summer's day! Taking a leap off the jumping rock should not be missed," advises a regular visitor to Red River Gorge who notes that despite having other campers nearby, there's "just enough to give you some happy company."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer prime viewing opportunities for local fauna. "A campsite settled upon the bank of the Kentucky River with a friendly farm cat, goats, horses and cow we delighted in a campfire as the sun set and the stars came out," reports a camper at Wildcat Creek Farm [https://thedyrt.com/camping/kentucky/wildcat-creek-farm], highlighting how the "night sky of stars and quiet stillness brought a calm and peace."
What campers like
River access sites: Campsites directly on waterways allow for fishing and wading without driving. A visitor to Wildcat Creek Farm described their experience: "The 'island' site is a nice little shaded area above the riverside. Off to the right corner of the site is a set of stairs leading down to the river with an area to take some chairs and relax by the water."
Backcountry solitude: For those seeking quiet tent camping near Carlisle, Kentucky, the less-developed areas offer privacy. "W always go to Indian Creek in the RRG. My family loves it. Getting away from the busy life and into backcountry is like stepping into God's country," shares an experienced camper at Red River Gorge.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear nights showcase stellar views due to minimal light pollution. According to a Wildcat Creek Farm camper: "On a clear night it was super relaxing listening to nature and looking up in the night sky and seeing orions belt and the moon directly above the river. Pretty damn cool especially if you have never seen country sky at night."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some areas require day or overnight permits for camping. "Pick up your parking pass at the Shell gas station at 12187 Campton rd, Stanton, KY. A three days pass is $5," advises a camper familiar with Red River Gorge Campground [https://thedyrt.com/camping/kentucky/red-river-gorge-geological-area].
Campsite conditions: Many dispersed areas lack basic facilities and maintenance. At Paragon Dispersed Camping Area [https://thedyrt.com/camping/kentucky/kentucky-paragon], campers report: "Sadly, there was a lot of trash at all the sites. Not all sites have fire rings. There are only 7 sites so and no reservations so you may end up out of luck."
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings higher water levels and potential flooding at riverside sites. "It can be very muddy!" notes one camper about Paragon, while another mentions: "We arrived right after a busy holiday weekend, and found our site (and those next to it) full of extra fire rings and heaps of trash."
Tips for camping with families
Safety around water: Supervise children near creeks and rivers at all times. Red River Gorge Adventures [https://thedyrt.com/camping/kentucky/red-river-adventures] receives praise for family camping: "This campground is actually a veteran owned boating rental/shuttle service with an attached campground. It is super family friendly, they have an 11pm quiet time and strict alcohol policy."
Farm experiences: Some sites offer interactions with farm animals that children enjoy. "We enjoyed our stay, and our kids loved the animals and the creek!" reports a family after visiting Wildcat Creek Farm, while another mentions "The resident goats, mules, donkeys and horses are very friendly - just like the hosts!"
Campsite security: Choose locations with controlled access if safety is a concern. A camper at Red River Adventures noted: "They close the gates at night and don't open the gates till 8 am was the only drawback. The gate adds to the security of the campground I liked that they control coming and going at night times."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many dispersed camping areas have rough access roads unsuitable for larger vehicles. At White Sulphur Horse Camp [https://thedyrt.com/camping/kentucky/daniel-boone-national-forest-white-sulphur-horse-camp], a visitor noted: "We try and use horse camps when traveling in larger groups since they have more space and are not always used... the place was clean, restroom facilities were stocked with TP."
Self-sufficiency planning: Bring all necessary supplies including water and power. "This is dispersed camping, meaning there are no amenities besides a pit toilet and a few fire rings. Make sure to bring your own water treatment," advises a camper familiar with Paragon, emphasizing that most primitive tent camping near Carlisle requires preparation.
Solar power options: For longer stays without hookups, portable solar setups work well in open areas. One RVer at Paragon shared: "There is no potable water or electrical hookups, but with our solar panel we are always ready for primitive sites."
